How to ask out a female friend without ruining the friendship if she says no?

[Anonymous]

I'm considering asking out a female friend who I've been friends with for about half a year. We hang out a bunch and there appears be the occasional sign she might have feelings for me. I don't have a big crush on her or anything, but I could still potential in terms of a romantic relationship. How could I ask her out in a way that wouldn't make her feel weird if she wasn't interested? I wouldn't want to ruin the friendship, and I'm fine with the rejection. My worry is that it would make her feel awkward and distance herself, since we're friends and she's not some random person I'm asking out. My thoughts are just keeping it really casual and low pressure, like asking if she'd be interesting in trying out going on a date or if she'd rather keep things strictly platonic. Even if she said the second option, I wouldn't be too bent out of shape over it. What do you think?

[jennifer_bloom]

You could do low key incremental suggestion so if you guys do date, she contributed to the romantic invitation. The last guy I knew through bible study asked me what I do on the weekends - you could build up to questions like, what do you like to do when your alone? That must get tiring, maybe I can help you out : ) are you free in between study sessions? etc…

[Asker]

Thanks! I appreciate your suggestion!

[Nikki1989]

How can the friendship be ruined?

It would have to be a real weak friendship for that to happen.

[Asker]

I appreciate your comment, because I find I tend to think of the worst case scenario, like her feeling like it's too awkward to be friends now since she sees me as wanting more than a friendship when she doesn't. Realistically, I don't think that would happen, but it's still present emotionally. So I appreciate your comment for challenging that notion

[Anonymous]

Ask her if she's ever thought about being more than friends with you? If she says no then just leave it alone.

[Asker]

Thanks! That's how I was thinking of approaching it too!

[Opinion Owner]

You're welcome!

[Radiate143]

It's called a risk, bro.